KBC Channel 1

Author: Nzula Nzyoka

  • Five ways to promote breastfeeding in Kenya

    Five ways to promote breastfeeding in Kenya

    Breastfeeding is one of the most fundamental and organic ways to nurture a child, giving them the best nutrients and necessary antibodies to keep them healthy. Despite all of its advantages, breastfeeding rates are still below average in several nations throughout the world. It is crucial to raise awareness of the urgent need to remove obstacles and promote breastfeeding as we observe World Breastfeeding Week.

    Breastfeeding is no exception to the myriad difficulties that commonly accompany parenting. Breastfeeding’s low prevalence has been hampered by social conventions, cultural values, and false information. Mothers are further discouraged from adopting this crucial activity by the absence of supportive environments, poor employment policies, and shame associated with public breastfeeding.

    The baby food industry’s extensive marketing and promotion of infant formula is a key impediment to nursing. By portraying formula as a preferable substitute, deceptive advertising strategies frequently discourage breastfeeding. This gives moms the mistaken impression that formula feeding is more practical, nutritionally equivalent, or even superior to breastfeeding.

    In many cases, mothers face pressure from family, friends, and even healthcare providers to switch to formula feeding, especially if they encounter difficulties in the early stages of breastfeeding. These challenges combined can significantly impact a mother’s confidence and motivation to breastfeed, leading to an overall decline in breastfeeding rates.

    Breast milk is the only nourishment that nature intended for infants since it has a special combination of nutrients that cannot be found in any infant formula. It has vital anti-infective antibodies that help shield infants from illnesses and infections, greatly lowering newborn morbidity and mortality rates. Additionally, breastfeeding is linked to a reduced risk of several chronic diseases, including diabetes, obesity, and certain allergies, which is advantageous for the long-term health of both mother and child.

    To make breastfeeding a top priority for national public health, governments, healthcare institutions, and communities must work together. By appreciating the value of breastfeeding, we can launch a holistic strategy to remove obstacles and give moms all the support they need.

    1. Education and Awareness: To eliminate myths and prejudices about breastfeeding, a strong public awareness effort is necessary. Accurate information can promote a more positive attitude toward breastfeeding by being shared through public forums, social media sites, and neighborhood gatherings.
    2. Supportive Healthcare System: Healthcare professionals are essential in assisting breastfeeding mothers. Medical professionals who have received the appropriate training and instruction can help moms throughout the nursing process. Adding lactation counseling services to healthcare facilities can also be extremely helpful for resolving breastfeeding difficulties.
    3. Workplace Policies: Working mothers can benefit from a supportive environment that is created by implementing breastfeeding-friendly workplace rules. Mothers may be able to continue breastfeeding even after returning to work because of paid maternity leave, flexible work schedules, and designated lactation rooms.
    4. Community Support: In order to normalize breastfeeding, a strong community support network must be established. Peer counselors, community gatherings, and moms’ support groups can all offer encouragement, help people feel less alone, and give advice.
    5. Regulation of Baby Food Marketing: Ads that are deceptive and discourage breastfeeding can be stopped by strict regulations on the marketing of baby food. Governments must prioritize and enforce measures to protect the breastfeeding rights of mothers and babies.

    Breastfeeding is an unparalleled act of love and care that lays the foundation for a healthier society. By breaking barriers and promoting breastfeeding as a national public health priority, we can empower mothers to make informed choices for their children’s health and well-being. In order to create an environment that supports breastfeeding as the ideal method of child nourishment, it is imperative that governments, healthcare institutions, communities, and individuals work together. Only then can we ensure a brighter, healthier future for generations to come.

     

    The writer, Lucy Chege, is a registered and licensed nutritionist based in Kenya, proficient in medical nutrition therapy.

    Twitter: @LucyChegeM

     

  • Vanessa Gatheca discusses the importance of Kenya’s cultural creatives

    Vanessa Gatheca discusses the importance of Kenya’s cultural creatives

    Vanessa Gatheca is an economist, policy researcher working at the intersection of global governance, human welfare and sustainable development in the Global South. 

    In this interview, she discusses the impact, inclusivity, and innovation of cultural and creative industries in Kenya

    1. What are the key research questions or themes that your research project aims to explore, and how do they align with contemporary artistic trends or cultural debates?

    In our research project, the main themes brought out were social, economic, political and cultural. This is because Cultural and Creative Industries in Kenya have been for years relevant in shaping narratives in all the aforementioned while generating income from the same.

    At the same time, political and economic instability affects the purchasing power of individuals who pay to be entertained by these creative practitioners. This impacts their ability to make a sustainable income from their work, impacting already existing business models.

    1. How do you plan to engage with local artists, scholars, and cultural practitioners to ensure your research project reflects diverse perspectives and contributes to the cultural landscape of your country?

    The data collection process was carried out through Focus Group discussions and interviews. Nairobi has always been used as the lens through which creatives perform and are supported. With this in mind, we focused our work in the counties of Kilifi,

    Kisumu, Nyeri and Uasin Gishu giving us a different perspective from our practice in Kenya’s capital.

    1. Can you share any innovative research methodologies or interdisciplinary approaches you are using to examine the intersection of arts, culture, and society in your project?

    We carried out a mixed methods research approach that incorporated qualitative and quantitative research in order to provide us with a comprehensive understanding of the state of Cultural and Creative Industries in Kenya, during the post-pandemic era.

    Applied Research is utilized as some of the insights and recommendations have been used to collate resources for capacity-building exercises for members of our community and the 4 counties we worked with.

    1. In what ways does your research project address issues of social or political relevance, and how do you anticipate it will contribute to broader discussions and debates in the field?

    Our research highlighted issues of diversity and inclusion in the Cultural and Creative 

    Industries in Kenya including some of the interventions and approaches on improving access to funding resources, creating opportunities, fostering a culture of inclusivity and more.

    The report also brings to light the importance of well-being for creative practitioners and other sustainable practices throughout the creative process.

    The Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) have been significant for encouraging discourse and drawing attention to matters of public interest. In a country such as Kenya which has been marred with ethnic tensions that have often snowballed into ethnic violence, we discussed the CCI’s ability to change the political narratives often spread with the goal of disinformation and malinformation.

    Our research project underlined the impact of these spaces in amplifying marginalized voices, mobilizing communities and challenging existing power structures.

    1. How did the Culture Connects grant support the implementation and dissemination of your arts research, and what opportunities do you envision it creating for knowledge exchange and collaboration?

    Baraza Media Lab is currently working on building an online learning platform that is accessible to the members of our community and the general public.

    The Research Grant provided by the British Council was very significant in helping us reach 4 counties outside of Nairobi in the first phase of this project. It also helped us collaborate with Creative Hubs in Malindi, Kisumu, Eldoret and Nyeri where the practitioners mentioned experiencing low engagement with stakeholders as resources have always been concentrated in the capital.

    1. What are your aspirations for the impact of your research project, both within academic or artistic communities and on wider society? How do you plan to communicate and engage with different audiences to achieve these goals?

    Internally, we have been working on various ways to disseminate the first phase of the report.

    We have received requests from various creative practitioners in other counties requesting us to carry out this exploratory work in order to bridge the gap between knowledge and relevant interventions.

    Our aim for this project is to encourage more co-creation, especially in the wake of unpredictable economic times where resource availability is limited. We are already having conversations on the same and have gone out to various Counties to build a larger community under Baraza creative practitioners.

    For stakeholders in the industry, we hope that the evidence and insights can inform policy development, and facilitate decision-making processes and resource-planning strategies.

    After identifying innovative approaches, interventions, or strategies that can address the problems CCI practitioners are experiencing, our hope is that we can work together to improve the existing practices, procedures and down to the business models and methodologies. This is while creating practical innovations that address industry-specific needs.

    Our goal is to generate actionable solutions for sustainable income generation for creative practitioners in Kenya.

  • Showmax releases list of international shows to watch this August

    Showmax releases list of international shows to watch this August

    Based On A True Story

     Two episodes on Mondays at 9:30pm from 7 August 

    Based on a True Story is the gripping tale of a realtor, a former tennis star and a plumber whose lives collide when they seize a unique opportunity to capitalise on America’s obsession with true-crime. 

    The Best Man: The Final Chapters 

    Available to binge from 20 August.

    Based on Malcolm D. Lee’s multi-award-winning film franchise, The Best Man: The Final Chapters catches up with Harper, Robyn, Jordan, Lance, Quentin, Shelby, Candace, and Murch as relationships evolve and past grievances resurface in the unpredictable stages of midlife crisis meets midlife renaissance.

    Winning Time: The Rise Of The Lakers Dynasty 2 

    Show will air on Mondays from 7 August.

    Season 2 of Winning Time continues to explore the professional and personal lives of the legendary 1980s Los Angeles Lakers basketball team. This season hones in on the period just after the Finals in 1980, building to the first professional rematch of the era’s greatest stars: Magic Johnson (Quincy Isaiah) and Larry Bird (Sean Patrick Small). 

    Warrior S3 

    Will be available to binge watch from 18 August. 

    Warrior is set in the ruthless world of late 19th-Century San Francisco, where rival Chinatown tongs fight for dominance. In the wake of the race riots that upended Chinatown in Season 2, Mai Ling (Dianne Doan from Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Descendants) uses her government connections to consolidate power, while Ah Sahm (Andrew Koji from Bullet Train, in a Critics Choice Super-nominated performance) and the Hop Wei tong must find new ways to survive.

    Power Book III: Raising Kanan S2 

    Available to binge watch from 4 August

    Power Book III: Raising Kanan follows 15-year-old Kanan Stark as he gets into the drug trade, making a bid to join the growing family business. 

    Mekai Curtis returns in Season 2 as the young Kanan, the character played in Power by Emmy and Grammy winner Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, who is one of the executive producers here. 

    Bel-Air S2 

    Begins streaming 2 episodes on Mondays from August 7.

    Set in modern-day Los Angeles, Bel-Air re-imagines the beloved sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air through a new, dramatic take on Will’s complicated journey from the streets of West Philadelphia to the gated mansions of Bel-Air. As his two worlds collide, Will reckons with the power of second chances while navigating the conflicts, emotions, and biases of a world far different from the only one he’s ever known. 

    Season 2 of the Peacock Original picks up with Will at a crossroads in his life as a new figure comes into his life who challenges what he’s learned in Bel-Air, even as he tries to rebuild the trust that was broken at the end of last season.

     

  • Rosemary Waweru talks new role, taking a break & being a mum

    Rosemary Waweru talks new role, taking a break & being a mum

     

    Rosemary Waweru, who made a name for herself in the hit TV series Tabasamu, reenters the acting world in the Showmax crime drama series Faithless.

    Rosemary plays Esther, a struggling waitress whose life is turned upside down when she stumbles on the proceeds of a heist gone wrong. Together with her three devoted church friends, Rosemary has to come to terms with the limitations of their faith as they tread a dangerous path into money laundering.

    In this interview, the actress shares more about her Faithless role, why she had to take a break, and what it means to finally come back.

    People still mention Tabasamu when they see you today. How does that feel?

    I feel honoured and I am so happy that my fans still remember the very first show I did. To be loved by so many is not something I take for granted.

    We’ve had some great actors since the days of Tabasamu that we no longer see on screen. Any thoughts on that?

    You know as we grow older, our paths change. Sometimes you discover other passions and you decide to follow them, so it is quite normal.

    You took some time off to raise your two daughters. Did you ever miss acting during this period?

    Of course, I did. Acting is my first love after all but raising my girls was very important to me. And it was also good for me to take a break to rejuvenate and come back stronger so I do think it was necessary to take that time off.

    How did you know it was time to make your big comeback on screen?

    I felt it in my bones that it was time but I also think everything had finally aligned for me. I had gone out there and tried many things like business and other passions, and I decided to settle on acting. It felt like just coming back home.

    At any point, were you scared of coming back and jumping into your role in Faithless?

    No, because I feel like this time I have come prepared, having been in the industry for quite some time. I know the mistakes that I made in the past and maybe the things that I didn’t do for my career back then. I came back guns blazing.

    What would you say drew you into your character, Esther?

    Mostly her integrity throughout the show; she’s a woman who stands by her word. It doesn’t matter what’s going on around her, if she has a certain conviction, she’s going to stick to it. That’s what stood out for me about her. I was like, ‘Yes, this is a character I would love to play.’

    Esther’s story is really what kickstarts the ladies’ journey from church to crime. How did it feel to know that the show’s story rests on your shoulders?

    I’ve always loved challenges, things that make me get out of my comfort zone, and that is what Faithless was. It was a big burden but I had the right people around me, from the directors to other crew members to the actors, so everything just fell into place. There’s nothing as awesome as working with people who know what they’re doing and who are passionate about it. Definitely something I’d want to do again.

    Are we going to see more of you on our screens after Faithless?

    Oh, you are definitely going to see a lot more from me from a personal level and also working with other productions. So yes, watch this space for more good things to come.

     

  • Kizomba Nights take over Nairobi

    Kizomba Nights take over Nairobi

    Kizomba becomes a favourite pastime for Kenyans

    In recent months, a captivating dance style has been making waves in the city’s entertainment scene, capturing the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Originating in Angola, the dance, known as Kizomba, beautifully fuses elements of African rhythm and Latin sensuality. 

    The dance style is characterised by close partner connection, intricate footwork, and strong dance and rhythm genes. For the rhythmically challenged, it might not be the best place to start.

    Over the years, Kizomba has evolved into a global phenomenon, captivating dance enthusiasts across continents. Nairobi’s vibrant entertainment scene has been quick to embrace this enchanting dance, providing a platform for individuals to connect, express themselves, and celebrate culture through movement. The dance has not only provided a platform for self-expression but has also fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie among its enthusiasts. 

    Where to go for Kizomba in Nairobi

    The Radisson in Upperhill is a great place to start. The hotel has embraced the Kizomba movement by hosting weekly Kizomba dance events that have become a highlight of the weekend. Every Saturday, the hotel comes alive with the captivating rhythms of Kizomba as they host a night of dance, music and cultural celebration. Starting from 7pm till late, dancers and enthusiasts gather to indulge in the magic of Kizomba, learning from each other and revelling in the vibrant energy of the dance. 

    The Nairobi Dance Project will be hosting a Kizomba night at the Ole Sereni hotel on Saturday, August 5 from 7 PM to 8 PM. There will also be complimentary classes from 8PM for those who wish to learn.

    If you’re looking to learn more about the dance and fully immerse yourself in the culture behind it, the Morabeza Kizomba Weekend, Nairobi is scheduled to take place on August 11. This is a 3-day celebration of Kizomba’s unique African heritage and cultural tourism, with the goal of solidifying regional cooperation in the realm of dance and culture among African countries. It will include workshops, dance classes, food and entertainment from artists across Africa.

    Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or simply curious to explore a new world of rhythm and connection, the Kizomba nights promise an unforgettable night of music, movement, and pure magic.

  • Celestine Gachuhi stands with Azziad amid cyberbullying case

    Celestine Gachuhi stands with Azziad amid cyberbullying case

    “Let’s be allies, not bystanders.”

    Celestine Gachuhi, popularly known for her role as Selina in the hit Kenyan series of the same name is urging Kenyan online to create a positive and fostering community that stands against cyberbullying.

    The actress’ sentiments come a week after radio personality and influencer Azziad Nasenya levelled cyberbullying charges against TikToker Brian Chira.

    In her statement, Gachuhi goes on to mention Azziad calling her a “friend” and “victim” of online bullying.

    “Cyberbullying is a serious problem that has lasting effects on its victims. My dear friend Azziad has been a victim for too long. No one should have to face hatred, harassment, or hurtful comments online,” she said.

    She further humanised the issue by reminding her followers that influencers were human beings with feelings too.

    “We are all human beings with emotions, dreams, and aspirations. Behind every profile picture is a real person with real feelings,” she said. “We need to remember that words carry power and they can either build someone up or tear them down.”

    In the case of Azziad versus Brian Chira, the latter was released on a cash bond of KSh. 50,000 after his arraignment at the Kibera Law courts.

    Seeming to applaud Azziad’s move, Gachuhi urged her followers to speak out whenever they witnessed such harassment online.

    “If you ever come across cyberbullying, please don’t say silent, Speak out against it, report it and stand in solidarity with the victims. Remember, together, we can make a difference. Let’s be allies, not bystanders.”

    Gachuhi was recently at KBC studios to discuss her mentorship programme with Shiksha Arora on Easy Friday.

  • Author Linda Musita to launch book at African Book Fair

    Author Linda Musita to launch book at African Book Fair

    Kenya author Linda Musita will officially launch her new book called Mtama Road at the African Book Fair taking place at the MacMillan Library on Friday, August 4.

    Mtama Road, published by Down River Road is a collection of short stories about snapshots, moments, and instances of characters, almost always teenagers, whose lives are connected by virtue of living so close to each other. While the stories are relatable, typical, and even universal childhoods, they have been rendered with such grace as to offer a sense of place and belonging for the reader. 

    Some of her stories from the collection have been featured in several publications including Jalada, Lolwe, Enkare Review, Kikwetu, Fresh Manure, Bloomsbury UK in the Africa 39 Anthology, Goethe Institut in Fresh Paint Vol. 2, among others.

    This collection of short stories is her second book following the success of her 2017 collection called Squad which was named a top 10 nominee for the Fiction Award in the Inaugural Brittle Paper Literary Awards for The Best of African Literature Online.

    Additionally, in 2022 she was selected as a Writer of Note by The de Groot Foundation, through their Courage to Write Grant, for her upcoming novella project Immaculate Pandemic.

    The author will sit down with the organisers of the African Book Fair on Friday from 6 PM to 7PM at the Macmillan Library.

  • Concours d’Elegance set for end of September

    Concours d’Elegance set for end of September

    Kenya’s foremost automotive annual event dubbed Concours d’Elegance is scheduled to take place on Spetember 24 at the Nairobi Racecourse along Ngong Road.

    While Concours continues to be a testament to the timeless allure of classic automobiles and a prestigious celebration of automotive elegance, grace, and craftsmanship, the event is also a showcase and fusion of fashion, culture, food and music making it a great social event regardless of automotive enthusiasm.

    What is it?

    Each year, enthusiasts, collectors, and aficionados gather to revel in the beauty and nostalgia of vintage cars and motorcycles, creating a captivating spectacle that showcases the country’s automotive heritage and passion for motoring.

    History

    The Concours d’Elegance in Kenya traces its roots back to the early 1970s when it was first organized by the Alfa Romeo Owners Club. Over the years, it has evolved into a grand motoring event, attracting participants and spectators from all corners of the globe. The organizers’ vision was to create a platform where classic car enthusiasts could showcase their treasured vehicles, exchange knowledge, and foster a sense of community among vintage car admirers.

    The event planned for September will mark its 51st year.

    Event Highlights

    The highlight of the Concours d’Elegance is the judged showcase of vintage and classic vehicles, ranging from pre-war models to elegant post-war creations. The meticulous restoration and preservation efforts showcased in these exhibits are a testament to the unwavering dedication of the participants. Each entrant vies for recognition and honours in various categories, including overall winners, best in class, and people’s choice awards.

    Adrian Wroe photographed next to his Ford

    In 2022, Adrian Wroe emerged the winner of the 2022 Africa Golden Concours d’Elegance competition courtesy of his Ford Tudor Modela 193. 

    Veronica Wroe pictured driving the boattail

    In 2019, Veronica Wroe made history by becoming only the second woman to have won the event by emerging overall car winner in this 1934 Rolls Royce Boatail. 

    *The 2020 and 2021 events were cancelled owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Time for drag race!

    In addition to being a showcase of classic automobiles, the event also features various activities and attractions for participants and visitors alike. One of the more popular activities featured in previous events happens at the Kenya Motorsport Federation Rally section where participants test their driving skills in a thrilling time trial. The event also features the “Motorcycle Concours,” – a stunning exhibition of two-wheeled classics. 

    It also offers a vibrant marketplace on the grounds, offering an assortment of automotive merchandise and delicious food, creating a festive ambience throughout the day.

    Registration for participants is currently ongoing.

  • Mammito announces ‘Mammito & Girlfriends’ event set for end of August

    Mammito announces ‘Mammito & Girlfriends’ event set for end of August

    The event has been dubbed ‘Girlfriends’ will feature several Kenyan comedians

    Kenyan stand-up comedian and one of Africa’s leading voices in comedy and entertainment, Mammito Eunice, will headline The Mammito & Girlfriends comedy night event slated for 26 August 2023 at the Nairobi National Museum’s auditorium. 

    Dubbed ‘Girlfriends’ – this is the second edition of her comedy event, following December’s Mammito & Friends – her first self-produced music and comedy event. Mammito & Girlfriends will feature several elite comedians including Justine Wanda, Ruth Nyambura, Shazz Nderitu and Ciku Waithaka.

    Ahead of the show she says, “I’m elated to be sharing my platform with these comical women that I am proud to also call my friends, whom I’ve also shared the stage with before. They all have different perspectives on daily life issues, politics and even relationships. Their views are non-conforming and I like that. This is why I want my fans to meet my girlfriends.”

    Here’s a brief about the all-female stand-up comedy lineup. 

    Justine Wanda who is also a comedy writer and political satirist says, “I’m witty, chaotically charming and have a strong penchant for dark humour.” 

    Ruth Nyambura who is a Financial Analyst by profession says, “If don’t judge a book by its cover was a person, it would be me. My calm demeanour won’t prepare you for my funny side. My wicked and intelligent humour will leave you gasping for breath with laughter.”

    Shazz Nderitu wears many hats. She’s an Interior Designer, MC and Mathematics Teacher among other things. She says, “I do stand-up comedy to appease the ancestors and because I am awesome at it. My excellent commentary on issues will make me your next darling!” 

    Ciku Waithaka is a TV & Film producer, Voice Over Actor & Writer is also a force in the comedy space. She’s warm, deceptively funny and adorable.

    Mammito is a trendsetting entertainer and stand-up comedian whose content resonates with millions of her fans in Kenya, Africa and beyond. She is currently preparing to headline and perform for the first time in Doha (Aug 10 2023) at The ‘African Night of Laughter’ event which is the biggest comedy event in Qatar. 

    The event is presented by Oryx Entertainment and is dedicated to showcasing the in-depth strength of African comedy around the globe. The comedy event which is supported by the Embassy of Kenya and the Embassy of Nigeria will also feature Oga Sabinus (Mr. Funny) from Nigeria. 

  • Xenia Manasseh releases new single ahead of album drop

    Xenia Manasseh releases new single ahead of album drop

    New 11-track album will drop on September 1.

    [embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZ6RIFze7xc[/embedyt]

    Alternative R&B Kenyan singer-songwriter, Xenia Manasseh, has released “Anticipate” – a brand new single featuring Karun – fellow R&B singer making waves in the growing alternative scene. 

    “Anticipate” is the second lead single off Xenia’s upcoming debut album ‘Love/Hate Pt. 1’ scheduled for release on 1 September 2023. 

    From the heavy drum, bass and percussion interplay in the beginning to the laid-back, impactful, orchestral second half, the new song showcases Xenia’s vulnerability in a simple yet profound storyline complimenting Karun’s haunting vocals. “Anticipate”s lyrics take on the uncertainty of a relationship that no longer blooms or feels the same. 

    “Anticipate” follows the success of her first single off the project – “Temporary Love” where she openly admits to being afraid of love or being in love again and the choices that she made as a result.

    Ahead of the release, Xenia Manasseh says that the making of “Anticipate” was fueled by two friends being honest with each other. 

    “It came from a place where Karun and I were afraid to tap into an emotion we have both experienced and we admit it,” adding, “Anticipate is a song that revolves around time and wanting to move forward from a current state of uncertainty by chasing the feeling of what it used to be.”

    She further admits to finally wanting to be done with love that is temporary or fleeting.

    Like many of Xenia’s songs “Anticipate” lives in the future and the past both sonically and in meaning. Xenia, throughout her career, has been known to create music for a global audience that is a relatable, honest and true reflection of her life, values and experiences. 

    Her music binds people from various walks of life because it speaks of real universal issues and this is replicated in her upcoming 11-track body of work. As Xenia’s debut project, it is beautifully curated, with features that include Tay Iwar and Shalom Dubas. 

    Xenia continues to make waves as an artist who blends stunning lyrical relatability with lush vocals and intricate songwriting. She is renowned for bringing a refreshing new sound to the music scene following the success of her 2019 debut EP Fallin’ Apart. She has captivated a varied audience with the clarity and purity of her tone and successful collaborations like Maybe, a 2022 EP produced by Ukweli.